Stage 2 - Lysebotn - Sandnes

125km | 2350m+ · Saturday 4th August

With the start of the second stage taking place in Lysebotn, riders will travel to the start line all together on a ferry. Views to appreciate on the way include the Lysefjord bridge, the Pulpit Rock, the Kjerag Rock that is renowned for attracting base jumpers and wing-suit pilots alike, and hopefully some seals relaxing on the shores of the fjord. Starting almost immediately upon leaving Lysebotn, the first climb of the day is brutal with an 8% average over its 20 hairpin bends and 10km. The ensuing 6km section along narrow winding roads passes alongside the entrance to Mt Kjerag as it rises and falls on its way to the highest point of Lyseheiane at 930m.

Descending towards the ski town of Sirdal, riders will then turn towards Sandnes and the second climb of the day that rises back up to 725m. Crossing over into the Hunnedalen valley riders will head back down to sea level, and hope for ideal meteorological conditions as this road is renowned for its howling headwind. Just over 100km into the stage in Oltedal riders will face the final climb of the stage, the Seldal, before a descent towards the finish line in Melshei.

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